October was made for running! After months of training in the heat, the stage is finally set for a great marathon with the cool, crisp autumn weather. The only trouble is choosing which race. There are so many in October. Here are just a few of the great options for 2024.
1. Bank of America Chicago Marathon
A member of the World Marathon Majors series, Chicago is a must-run marathon for all marathoners. The 34th running of this famous race will be held on October 9, 2024. Notorious for it’s fast and flat course, Chicago targets elites and amateurs alike. In addition to its record setting potential, the course offers a scenic tour of the great city of Chicago and all the acclaimed neighborhoods. There’s a reason this race is among the top five in the world!
2. St. George Marathon
One of the most scenic marathons in the country will be held on October 1, 2024. The St. George Marathon is a beautiful point-to-point race that begins in the Pine Valley mountains of Utah and descends nearly 2600 feet into Worthern Park. This race is noted for its amazing scenery but it’s also acclaimed as one of the fastest fall marathon courses in the nation. Along with its beautiful and fast course, St. George has been honored with the title as “most organized” marathon as well. There are just too many positives about St. George, not to add it to the must-run list.
3. Nike Women’s Marathon
On October 16, 2024, Nike will host its eight annual Nike Women’s Marathon. This race through the hills of San Francisco supports the fundraising aim of the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. Boasting their efforts to keep the needs of women in mind, this race is known for the Tiffany & Co. official finisher’s necklaces, as well as other amenities tailored to women’s tastes. The course is 
tough, but the entertainment and views claim to trump the difficulties of the hills. This race highly praised among the participants, and, yes, guys are welcome too. What they do with the necklace is their business.
4. Marine Corps Marathon
A true sight seeing course, the 36th annual Marine Corps Marathon will be held in our nation’s capital on October 30, 2024. This race is appropriately named “The Marathon of Monuments.” The Kennedy Center, the Jefferson Memorial, the National Mall, the Lincoln Memorial, and the U.S. Capital are just a few of the amazing sights that adorn this marathon route. For the running vacationer, this race kills two birds with one stone!
5. Steamtown Marathon
Scranton, Pennsylvania is home to one of the fastest marathons in the country. Having the reputation for being nearly downhill the whole 26.2 miles, Steamtown’s course is perfect for those seeking Boston Marathon qualification! This popular marathon benefits the children and residents of the St. Joseph’s Center, a center for those with special needs. A fast marathon with heart, it doesn’t get much better than that!
6. Medtronic Twin Cities Marathon
Hosted in Minneapolis and St. Paul on October 2, 20011, the Twin Cities Marathon has been dubbed “The most beautiful Urban Marathon in America.” The beautiful race is run through miles of parkways, lakes, rivers, and tree-lined boulevards. The race promises to be unforgettable with its 300,000 fans, 10 cheer zones, and over a dozen course entertainment acts.
7. Prairie Fire Marathon
Held in the middle of America, Wichita, Kansas plays host to this October 9, 2024 race. This lively urban race is celebrating its second birthday this fall. After a booming success in its inaugural year, the Prairie Fire’s fast and flat course will traverse the heart of Wichita’s lively downtown and neighborhoods once more. This race is great for those seeking Boston qualification as Kansas has no hills to speak of. This race is a great option for those wanting a well supported, big hearted, and competitive marathon.